Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An information processing apparatus, comprising: a first near field communication unit that transmits a first wireless signal for performing first near field communication; a second near field communication unit that transmits a second wireless signal for performing second near field communication; and a processor configured to act as a communication control unit that controls the first and second near field communication units such that the first wireless signal and the second wireless signal are alternately transmitted, identification information of a user is acquired from a terminal device via the first near field communication when connection via the first near field communication is established in response to transmitting the first wireless signal, and identification information of the information processing apparatus is transmitted to the terminal device via the second near field communication when connection via the second near field communication is established in response to transmitting the second wireless signal.
2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising: a wireless communication unit that performs wireless communication that differs from the first and second near field communication in a communication protocol, wherein the processor is further configured to act as an authenticating unit that performs an authentication based on the identification information of the user acquired by the communication control unit, a receiving unit that receives print instruction information to instruct printing of data from the terminal device through the wireless communication unit, and an execution unit that performs a printing process according to the print instruction information received by the receiving unit when the authentication by the authenticating unit succeeds.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus designed to enhance secure printing operations. The apparatus includes a communication control unit that manages two distinct near-field communication (NFC) protocols to acquire user identification information from a terminal device, such as a smartphone. The processor within the apparatus is configured to authenticate the user based on this identification data. Additionally, the apparatus features a wireless communication unit that operates using a different communication protocol from the NFC methods, enabling broader connectivity. This unit receives print instruction information from the terminal device, which the processor evaluates after successful authentication. Upon verification, the execution unit processes the print job according to the received instructions. The system ensures secure and authenticated printing by leveraging multiple communication protocols, reducing unauthorized access risks while maintaining seamless user interaction. The apparatus integrates NFC for initial identification and a secondary wireless protocol for data transfer, optimizing both security and convenience in printing workflows.
3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein, when the authentication by the authenticating unit based on the identification information of the user acquired from the terminal device does not succeed, the execution unit performs the printing process when the authentication by the authenticating unit based on the identification information of the user acquired from a non-contact card of the user via the first near field communication or based on the identification information of the user that is directly input to the information processing apparatus succeeds.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus designed to enhance secure printing operations. The apparatus includes an authenticating unit that verifies user identity using identification information acquired from a terminal device, such as a smartphone or computer. If this authentication fails, the apparatus allows alternative authentication methods to proceed with the printing process. Specifically, the apparatus can authenticate the user via a non-contact card using near field communication (NFC) or by direct input of identification information into the apparatus. Upon successful authentication through either of these alternative methods, the execution unit proceeds with the printing process. This system ensures flexibility in authentication while maintaining security, accommodating scenarios where primary authentication methods may fail or be unavailable. The apparatus is particularly useful in environments where multiple authentication options are necessary to ensure seamless and secure access to printing services.
4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein, in a case where the communication control unit does not transmit the identification information of the information processing apparatus to the terminal device, the authenticating unit does not perform the authentication even when the identification information of the user is acquired.
This invention relates to secure communication systems where an information processing apparatus interacts with a terminal device. The problem addressed is ensuring authentication only occurs when necessary, preventing unnecessary authentication processes that consume resources and may expose sensitive information. The system includes an information processing apparatus with a communication control unit that manages the transmission of the apparatus's identification information to a terminal device. An authenticating unit within the apparatus verifies user credentials, but only when the communication control unit has transmitted the apparatus's identification information. If the communication control unit does not send this identification, the authenticating unit remains inactive, even if the user's identification information is acquired. This prevents authentication from occurring in scenarios where the apparatus is not ready to establish a secure connection, such as during initial setup or when communication is restricted. The invention improves security by ensuring authentication is contextually appropriate, reducing unnecessary processing and potential exposure of authentication data. It also enhances efficiency by avoiding redundant verification steps when the apparatus is not prepared for secure communication. The system is particularly useful in environments where devices must authenticate users only under specific conditions, such as when network connectivity is confirmed or when the apparatus is in a secure operational state.
5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the communication control unit stops the second near field communication when the authentication based on the identification information of the user acquired via the first near field communication does not succeed.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus that uses near field communication (NFC) for secure authentication. The apparatus includes a communication control unit that manages two distinct NFC operations: a first NFC process for acquiring user identification information and a second NFC process for subsequent data exchange. The apparatus authenticates the user based on the identification information obtained via the first NFC. If authentication fails, the communication control unit terminates the second NFC process to prevent unauthorized access. The system ensures security by linking the second NFC operation to successful authentication, thereby restricting data exchange to verified users. This approach mitigates risks of unauthorized data access or manipulation by enforcing authentication before enabling further communication. The apparatus may be part of a broader system where the first NFC process involves a secure element or token, while the second NFC process handles sensitive transactions or data transfers. The invention addresses security vulnerabilities in NFC-based systems by enforcing authentication checks before allowing subsequent communication, enhancing protection against unauthorized use.
6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the communication control unit establishes the connection via the second near field communication more preferentially than the connection via the first near field communication.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus designed to manage connections between multiple near field communication (NFC) interfaces. The apparatus includes a communication control unit that prioritizes establishing a connection via a second NFC interface over a first NFC interface. The first NFC interface operates in a first communication mode, such as passive mode, where the apparatus receives power and data from an external device. The second NFC interface operates in a second communication mode, such as active mode, where the apparatus actively transmits power and data. The communication control unit determines the connection priority based on predefined criteria, such as power availability, data transfer requirements, or user preferences. If the second NFC interface is available and meets the criteria, the apparatus establishes a connection through it, ensuring efficient and reliable communication. If the second interface is unavailable or unsuitable, the apparatus falls back to the first NFC interface. This prioritization improves communication reliability and energy efficiency by leveraging the most suitable NFC mode for the given conditions. The invention is particularly useful in mobile devices, payment systems, and IoT applications where seamless and efficient NFC communication is critical.
7. An image forming apparatus, comprising: a first near field communication unit that transmits a first wireless signal for performing first near field communication; a second near field communication unit that transmits a second wireless signal for performing second near field communication; and a processor configured to act as a communication control unit that controls the first and second near field communication units such that the first wireless signal and the second wireless signal are alternately transmitted, identification information of a user is acquired from a terminal device via the first near field communication when a connection via the first near field communication is established in response to transmitting the first wireless signal, and identification information of the image forming apparatus is transmitted to the terminal device via the second near field communication when a connection via the second near field communication is established in response to transmitting the second wireless signal.
An image forming apparatus includes two near field communication (NFC) units that alternately transmit wireless signals to establish communication with a terminal device. The first NFC unit transmits a signal to initiate communication with the terminal device, allowing the apparatus to receive user identification information from the terminal device once the connection is established. The second NFC unit transmits a signal to establish a separate communication link, through which the apparatus sends its own identification information to the terminal device. The apparatus uses a processor to control the alternating transmission of signals between the two NFC units, ensuring that the first unit handles user authentication while the second unit provides device identification. This dual-NFC approach enables secure and efficient exchange of identification data between the image forming apparatus and the terminal device, addressing challenges in authentication and device recognition in NFC-based systems. The system ensures seamless interaction by dynamically switching between communication modes, improving reliability and security in user and device identification processes.
8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7 , further comprising a wireless communication unit that performs wireless communication that differs in a communication protocol from the first and second near field communication, wherein the processor is further configured to act as an authenticating unit that performs an authentication based on the identification information of the user acquired by the communication control unit, a receiving unit that receives print instruction information to instruct printing of data from the terminal device via the wireless communication unit, and an execution unit that performs a printing process according to the print instruction information received by the receiving unit when the authentication by the authenticating unit succeeds.
This invention relates to an image forming apparatus, such as a printer or multifunction device, designed to enhance user authentication and secure printing operations. The apparatus includes a communication control unit that acquires user identification information through near-field communication (NFC) protocols, such as NFC-A and NFC-F, from a terminal device like a smartphone or NFC tag. The apparatus also features a wireless communication unit that operates using a different communication protocol, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, to receive print instruction information from the terminal device. A processor within the apparatus functions as an authenticating unit to verify the user based on the acquired identification information. If authentication succeeds, a receiving unit obtains print instruction data via the wireless communication unit, and an execution unit processes the printing task accordingly. This system ensures secure, user-specific printing by combining near-field authentication with wireless data transfer, preventing unauthorized access while maintaining convenience. The apparatus may also include a display unit to guide users through the authentication and printing workflow.
9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein, when the authentication by the authenticating unit based on the identification information of the user acquired from the terminal device does not succeed, the execution unit performs the printing process when the authentication by the authenticating unit based on the identification information of the user acquired from a non-contact card of the user via the first near field communication or based on the identification information of the user that is directly input to the image forming apparatus succeeds.
This invention relates to an image forming apparatus with enhanced authentication flexibility for printing processes. The apparatus includes an authenticating unit that verifies user identification information acquired from a terminal device, such as a smartphone or computer, via a communication interface. If authentication fails, the apparatus allows alternative authentication methods to proceed with the printing process. Specifically, the apparatus can authenticate the user via a non-contact card using near field communication (NFC) or by direct input of identification information into the apparatus. The apparatus also includes an execution unit that performs the printing process only after successful authentication. This design ensures secure access to printing functions while providing multiple authentication pathways to accommodate different user scenarios, such as when a terminal device is unavailable or authentication fails. The system improves usability by allowing seamless transitions between authentication methods without requiring the user to restart the process. The apparatus may also include a display unit to guide the user through the authentication steps and a communication unit to facilitate data exchange with external devices. This invention addresses the need for flexible and secure authentication in printing environments, particularly in shared or public settings where multiple authentication methods may be necessary.
10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein, in a case where the communication control unit does not transmit the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the terminal device, the authenticating unit does not perform the authentication even when the identification information of the user is acquired.
An image forming apparatus, such as a printer or copier, is designed to securely authenticate users before allowing access to its functions. A common challenge in such systems is ensuring that authentication only occurs when necessary, preventing unnecessary processing and potential security risks. This apparatus includes a communication control unit that manages the exchange of identification information between the device and a terminal device, such as a smartphone or computer. The apparatus also has an authenticating unit that verifies user credentials, such as passwords or biometric data, to grant access. In operation, the communication control unit determines whether to transmit the apparatus's identification information to the terminal device. If the communication control unit does not send this information, the authenticating unit is configured to skip authentication entirely, even if the user's identification information is acquired. This prevents unnecessary authentication attempts when the apparatus is not in a state to process them, improving efficiency and reducing unnecessary processing overhead. The system ensures that authentication only proceeds when the apparatus is ready to communicate with the terminal device, enhancing security and performance.
11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein the communication control unit stops the second near field communication when the authentication based on the identification information of the user acquired via the first near field communication does not succeed.
This invention relates to an image forming apparatus equipped with near field communication (NFC) functionality for secure user authentication. The apparatus includes a communication control unit that manages two distinct NFC operations: a first NFC process for acquiring user identification information and a second NFC process for enabling specific functions or operations. The communication control unit ensures that the second NFC process is only activated after successful authentication via the first NFC process. If authentication fails, the communication control unit terminates the second NFC process to prevent unauthorized access. This system enhances security by requiring valid user credentials before allowing further NFC-based interactions, such as printing, scanning, or accessing stored documents. The apparatus may also include a display unit to guide the user through the authentication process and a storage unit to retain user data securely. The invention addresses the need for secure, contactless authentication in office environments where multiple users share devices, reducing the risk of unauthorized access while maintaining convenience.
12. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the communication control unit establishes the connection via the second near field communication more preferentially than the connection via the first near field communication.
This invention relates to an image forming apparatus with enhanced near field communication (NFC) connectivity. The apparatus includes a communication control unit that manages connections via two different NFC methods: a first NFC method and a second NFC method. The first NFC method is a standard NFC connection, while the second NFC method is a modified or alternative NFC connection designed for improved performance or compatibility. The communication control unit prioritizes establishing the second NFC connection over the first NFC connection when both are available. This prioritization ensures that the apparatus uses the more efficient or reliable NFC method whenever possible, improving connectivity and user experience. The apparatus may also include a display unit to guide users through the connection process and a storage unit to retain connection settings. The invention addresses the need for seamless and reliable NFC-based communication in image forming devices, particularly in environments where multiple NFC standards or protocols may be present. By automatically selecting the preferred NFC method, the apparatus avoids compatibility issues and reduces setup time for users.
13. An information processing method comprising: controlling a first near field communication unit that transmits a first wireless signal for performing first near field communication and a second near field communication unit that transmits a second wireless signal for performing second near field communication such that the first wireless signal and the second wireless signal are alternately transmitted; acquiring identification information of a user from a terminal device via the first near field communication when a connection via the first near field communication is established in response to transmitting the first wireless signal; and transmitting own identification information to the terminal device via the second near field communication when a connection via the second near field communication is established in response to transmitting the second wireless signal.
This invention relates to near field communication (NFC) systems for secure data exchange between devices. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure identification and authentication processes in NFC-based interactions, particularly where both device and user identification are required. The method involves two NFC units operating alternately to transmit distinct wireless signals. The first NFC unit transmits a signal to establish a connection with a terminal device, such as a smartphone, and acquires user identification information once the connection is established. The second NFC unit then transmits a signal to establish a separate connection with the same terminal device, during which the device transmits its own identification information. By alternating the transmission of these signals, the system ensures that both user and device authentication occur in a controlled sequence, enhancing security and reliability. The alternating transmission prevents interference between the two NFC operations, allowing seamless and secure exchange of identification data. This approach is useful in applications requiring dual authentication, such as access control, payment systems, or secure device pairing, where both user and device credentials must be verified independently. The method ensures that each NFC operation is performed without mutual interference, maintaining the integrity of the authentication process.
14. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing a program causing a computer to function as: a communication control unit that controls a first near field communication unit that transmits a first wireless signal for performing first near field communication and a second near field communication unit that transmits a second wireless signal for performing second near field communication, wherein the communication control unit controls the first and second near field communication units such that the first wireless signal and the second wireless signal are alternately transmitted, identification information of a user is acquired from a terminal device via the first near field communication when a connection via the first near field communication is established in response to transmitting the first wireless signal, and identification information of the computer is transmitted to the terminal device via the second near field communication when a connection via the second near field communication is established in response to transmitting the second wireless signal.
This invention relates to a system for managing near field communication (NFC) between a computer and a terminal device, addressing the challenge of efficiently handling multiple NFC protocols. The system includes a computer-readable medium storing a program that enables a computer to control two NFC units: one for transmitting a first wireless signal to establish a connection with a terminal device and another for transmitting a second wireless signal to perform a different type of NFC communication. The communication control unit alternates between transmitting the first and second wireless signals to avoid interference. When the first NFC unit establishes a connection, the system acquires user identification information from the terminal device. When the second NFC unit establishes a connection, the system transmits the computer's identification information to the terminal device. This alternating transmission method ensures seamless and secure data exchange between the computer and the terminal device, supporting different NFC protocols without conflicts. The system is particularly useful in environments where multiple NFC-based authentication or data transfer processes are required, such as access control or payment systems.
Unknown
January 9, 2018
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